Next Wednesday will be one of the most interesting days for those living in Thailand since the day after the coup. Prime Minster Surayud will not be in the country for what the media is labeling “Judgment Day”. Thailand’s two major political parties are facing disseverment and the consequences could be chaotic. Surely the prime minister should at least be present at such a crucial time; the military will be in control.

The Bangkok Post today reported that the government was ready to declare a state of emergency. “Defence Minister Boonrawd Somtas said the government has closely examined the situation and concluded that disorder is likely.”

It is possible that there will be mass protests on Wednesday, and given the government’s recent knee-jerk responses it will be critical that the situation is dealt with effectively. To give you an idea of how serious this is, Hi- Majest- The Ki-g gave a speech yesterday to Thailand’s senior judges. The Kin-, who rarely speaks on political matters, spoke methodically and purposefully:

“You have the responsibility to prevent the country from collapsing… Whatever the verdict will be, it will bring damage to the country.”

HMtK, who has no political power, said that Thailand “needs” political parties. Next week’s verdict, which could see Thai Rak Thai and Democrat Party members banned from politics for five years, will be broadcast live on TV and radio; whatever is going to happen will happen instantly. Police and soldiers are joining forces with Bangkok’s administration. Police Chief Seripisuth Temiyavej warned people to stay at home, which will be difficult for those who have to work in the middle of the week.

The police chief also stated that he would take action against villagers who come to Bangkok with their elephants.

Both the mahouts and their elephants would be arrested, he said. (Bangkok Post)

Do they have prisons for elephants? Anything is possible; T minus five days.

Techno’ tags: Bangkok, Thailand, Thai politics, Thai Rak Thai